Joburgers, escape the concrete jungle at these leafy 'garden' restaurants

16 April 2016 - 02:00 By Belinda Mountain
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The good thing about the Joburg winters (and autumns) is the consistently sunny daytime weather.

The View boutique hotel is perched high on the hills of Auckland Park.
The View boutique hotel is perched high on the hills of Auckland Park.
Image: Supplied

With clear skies and no habitual afternoon summer thunderstorms, now’s the time to take advantage of lazy outdoor lunches.

For inspiration, here’s our round up of the top restaurants in Johannesburg located in beautiful garden grounds.

1888 @ The View

One of Joburg’s best kept secrets, The View is a five star boutique hotel perched high on the hills of Auckland Park, with enviable views over the city beyond. The hotel’s restaurant spills onto the terrace overlooking immaculately groomed gardens that will make you feel like you’re in England rather than in the heart of Joburg. Enjoy alfresco dining of fresh, contemporary European fare, or formal afternoon tea for special occasions. Call 011-726-4728.

Il Giardino

Il Giardino, a perennially popular restaurant at 44 Stanley literally translates as “The Garden” in Italian, so we couldn’t think of a better restaurant to head up our list. Sip on some vino under the shade of multiple olive trees, as you people-watch while relaxing with family and friends. We recommend ordering the much-loved balsamic fillet with creamy mashed potatoes followed by tiramusi. Call 011-482-4978.

The Living Room in Maboneng

The Living Room, an “urban jungle oasis” set in the heart of downtown Joburg, has been a hit since it opened thanks to its vibey atmosphere and dedication to the rejuvanation of the inner city. Filled with vertical trees and plants, the space is perhaps best known for its Sunday parties with hip DJs, cool cocktails and a gorgeous view of the sun setting over inner-city Joburg. Call 011-029-0556.

Leafy Greens and Casalinga

A visit to Italian eatery Casalinga and its neighbouring vegetarian restaurant Leafy Greens is a must if you’re looking for a restaurant with spacious garden surroundings. Set in the grounds of a huge organic farm in Muldersdrift, many of the ingredients on your plate will have been sourced from the fruit and vegetables grown on the premises. Call Leafy Greens on 010-595-4563 and Casilinga on 087-941-1223.

Al Fiume

Slightly further afield in Centurion, Al Fiume is set on the Hennops River Valley, which means you get beautiful river views from the comfort of a shady wooden deck. Dine on grilled calamari in a spicy sambal dressing and then try the pork belly for mains, and end off with the lemon cheesecake meringue for dessert. Call 079-886-9827.

 

This article was originally published in one of the Sunday Times Neighbourhood: Property and Lifestyle guides. Visit Yourneighbourhood.co.za, like YourNeighbourhoodZA on Facebook and follow YourHoodZA on Twitter.

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